A response from the Afghan government is still missing and this in itself raises questions on their dubious role.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan-Afghanistan ties are of a very unique nature as both states can’t neglect each other if they want peace and stability in their respective countries. This relationship is now becoming more multifaceted as the time for withdrawal of US and Nato forces from Afghan territory comes closer. Afghan President Hamid Karzai visited Pakistan which shows the importance of our country when it comes to the resolution of the problems faced by our neighbouring country; in countering terrorism and to act as a mediator between the Afghan government and the Afghan Taliban. Pakistan has responded in a positive way and welcomed this role. Similarly, as a confidence building measure, the Pakistan government released seven Afghan prisoners and the release of Mullah Baradar is also expected in the near future, but amongst all this, the Afghan government’s agenda is still not clear as is evident from a recent border violation by them. This incident took place in the Zhob area of Balochistan, where five Pakistani nationals were killed and three others got injured. This is a highly condemnable act as both states are proceeding towards the resolution of important issues. A response from the Afghan government is still missing and this in itself raises questions on their dubious role.
A solid relationship cannot be braced between these two countries in the presence of such acts from one country and the absence of trust from both. The Afghan government should take this matter seriously as this act is a sheer violation of the sovereignty of our state integrity which will further exacerbate the prevailing situation.
Sobia Amir
Published in The Express Tribune, September 20th, 2013.
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